26/02/2026
This is an awesome reflection.
๐ด A simple horsemanship exercise for parents, carers and coaches...
You donโt need a formal lesson for this. You donโt even need a saddle.
Next time youโre with a child and their pony - whether thatโs at home, before a ride, after a lesson or during a rally - pause for a moment and ask:
โWhere do you think your pony likes to be scratched?โ
Hold the pony safely and let the child spend a few quiet minutes gently rubbing and scratching along the neck. Encourage them to really watch the ponyโs reaction.
When they find the right spot, youโll often see it straight away:
โฅ๏ธ The eyes soften or half close
โฅ๏ธ The bottom lip droops
โฅ๏ธ The neck stretches forward
โฅ๏ธ The whole expression relaxes
Some horses will try to scratch back with their teeth. It usually means theyโre enjoying it, but itโs important not to allow it, as it can easily turn into nipping.
Most horses enjoy being scratched just below the wither. They might also like behind the ears, along the neck or on the chest. Let the child explore gently and pay attention to the feedback theyโre getting.
For coaches, this can be a lovely way to start a rally. It settles everyone, helps young riders tune in, and reminds them that good riding starts on the ground.
For parents and carers, itโs a simple shift in focus. Instead of โWhat are we practising today?โ the question becomes, โHow is my pony feeling?โ
Those small, quiet moments matter. They build observation, empathy and feel - the foundations of real horsemanship.
๐ฅ This activity is adapted from the Pony Club Australia D Certificate Manual